This morning I received an email with my WSET Level 2 Award in Wines exam results—I passed, with Merit. My score was an 84%, making it one point shy of receiving a Distinction honor. As my husband woke up, I ecstatically shared this news with him and he squeezed me tight and expressed how proud he was of me. I started to go on about this 1% off from Distinction and he politely reminded me of the call I made from my rental car outside of Rutherford House on that stressful rainy day in Napa, expressing my fears that I potentially didn’t pass. I was thankful for his words and we continued to celebrate.

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Sonoma, California, Scribe Winery offers a serene wine-tasting experience steeped in down-to-earth elegance. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the stunning views synonymous with the property. The Scribe team exuded a welcoming vibe that resonated with the values and interests that are important to me.

Ensconced among 712 acres of picturesque Carneros vineyards, the Auberge Stanly Ranch is one of the latest additions to the hotel chain’s distinguished global portfolio. Embodying understated elegance, the sprawling resort and its fantastic restaurant, Bear, have emerged as beacons for the new Napa Valley, introducing a modern essence to the iconic yet sleepy California wine region.

At Stags Leap Winery, the focus is on crafting wines that truly reflect the unique terroir of the Napa Valley. The winery's vineyards are planted on some of the most sought-after land in the region, with a range of soils and microclimates that allow for the production of a wide variety of grape varietals.

Nestled amidst the scenic vineyards and charming streets of Healdsburg, California, Troubadour Bread stands as a beacon for food enthusiasts seeking artisanal provisions. During my recent trip to this charming bakery, I was impressed by their unique selection of sandwiches, and I was truly amazed by the exceptional quality of the bread on which they were prepared. One casual lunch at Troubadour left me feeling completely inspired by the culinary scene of Sonoma County and I cannot wait to return.

Nestled within the enchanting landscapes of Napa Valley, the newly revitalized Frank Family Vineyards beckons wine enthusiasts seeking a refined and stylish setting to savor their favorite vintages. Among the array of delightful tasting experiences awaiting guests, the Miller House stands as a true gem.

The Salk Institute for Biological Studies is a world-renowned research institute located in the stunning coastal neighborhood of La Jolla in San Diego, California. It is also my favorite building in Southern California. The history-making institute was founded in 1960 by Jonas Salk, the developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine. Salk selected one of the most celebrated architects of the 20th century, Louis Kahn, to design the research facility.

Loreto is a new Mexican seafood restaurant in Frogtown, Los Angeles. The gorgeous Loreto specializes in refined mariscos (seafood), such as ceviches, aguachiles, and zarandeados. In addition to its Baja-inspired seafood dishes, the restaurant also offers a superb selection of cocktails and mezcal.

Lingua Franca is a modern American restaurant in Frogtown, Los Angeles, that has quickly become a favorite among Eastside dwellers. Owned and operated by Lauren and Peter Lemos, the husband-and-wife duo behind the beloved Wax Paper, the restaurant offers a new take on classic American dishes, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu changes regularly, but you can always expect to find something deliciously inventive.

Barra Santos is an L.A. restaurant serving traditional Portuguese small plates along with natural wines in Cypress Park. The restaurant has quickly become a hot destination for L.A.’s eastsiders, its sidewalk packed Wednesday - Sunday with patrons eager to be seated.

LaLou Wine Bar & Restaurant is a gem in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. This charming spot offers a carefully curated selection of natural, biodynamic, and small-production wines from around the world, paired with market-driven fare from Executive Chef Ian Anderson.

My recent trip to New York City was inspired by an invitation from visionary Los Angeles artist and sculptor, Lauren Halsey, to attend the opening celebration of her newest piece entitled the eastside of south central los angeles hieroglyph prototype architecture (I), located on the Roof Garden of The MET. Commissioned by The Metropolitan Museum of Art to create a site-specific installation, Lauren has delivered a full-scale architectural structure described as “the collective energy and imagination of the South Central Los Angeles Community”, the place she was born, raised, and continues to work.